Matsulu model conquers life one stage at a time
Buyisile Sikonde said she is building her modelling brand to be an inspiration to her peers in the community.
With the aim to take her passion to international heights, a beauty and fashion model, Buyisile Sikonde (21), is pushing herself to be an inspiration for women empowerment and to young girls.
Born and raised in Matsulu, the beautiful, petite Sikonde has been in the industry for at least four years.
“If I could describe my journey in three words, it would be informative, growth and bravery. So far, I have entered seven pageants in which I bagged three crowns and was a finalist in most. However, I think my biggest achievement is overcoming a lot of my fears. I am mostly confident, especially when engaging in public social debates. I believe I have emerged from being a tiny snowball to being a giant snowman.”
She is the former ambassador of Miss Heritage Mpumalanga 2021, the first runner-up of Miss Zwelisha 2022, and former Miss Ehlatsini Park 2022. She has also participated in some fashion shows recently hosted in Mbombela, including the Malengs Fashion and Crafts Show.
Sikonde said she fell in love with pageants and modelling at a young age. She drew her passion from TV, watching super modelling shows and Miss South Africa. “I think what I longed for the most was to become someone the youth in my community could look up to. I believe young people still need someone in their area who will be an inspiration to them.”
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Her family is supportive of her passion. She is also currently studying ecotourism management at the Tshwane University of Technology’s Mbombela Campus.
“I was raised by an unemployed single mother, yet so strong and perseverant. My family is not only supportive, but they are the source of my strength. They are always there for every step I take and that is something I truly appreciate.”
She said while inspiring youngsters, she embarks on projects to uplift them.
“I have seen the need to establish activities that will take our youth off the streets, and to mobilise campaigns that will educate and develop the aptitudes of individuals in the community. These include public speaking and debate campaigns, talent shows and more. I am now working on launching my own modelling school with the aim of helping young girls with the same dream as mine.”
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Sikonde encouraged girls to never doubt their potential. “The only enemy of progress in life is yourself. Stop second-guessing yourself and invest time in working towards the ideas God has placed in you. Remember, the moment you decide you want better for yourself, is the moment the whole universe will start to shift into your favour,” she said.
